I have traveled extensively and been part of many tour groups and excursions; Mari has clearly been the top guide I have has the pleasure of being with. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and her knowledge was vast and reliable. She was extremely respectful to the environment and kindly (yet consistently and firmly) made sure visitors to the Islands were too. Others guests and I would compare our daily experiences during dinner, and it was always those who were with Mari who had the best excursions that day. We even started to try to figure out what pangs she was on so we could place ourselves correctly in line as to be sure to get with her. If there was a rating higher than 5, she would receive it! She was also empathetic of everyone's physical and hearing ability level. She made sure everyone was doing okay throughout, and made sure everyone had an opportunity to view what was seen and ask questions. Our actual trip was not one of the options below. She was a naturalist on board the Celebrity Experience to the Galapagos Islands. I traveled with only one friend, but Mari helped the 41 passengers become like a family from July 8 to 15.

We felt like we had a professor with us.

Mari's enthusiasm for all things Galapagos and Equadorian are infectious.  Makes me want to return to explore more of the country.  Her knowledge of the natural world and local history are very thorough. She is extremely generous and patient and funny.

Mariuxi was, without question, the best Naturalist and Guide that I have ever had.   She not only was knowledgeable (I don't think there was any question that she could not answer), but she was fun and flexible.   Sometimes guides don't respond to teasing, but she was unique in responding with humor and teasing us back.   Because of that, because of her knowledge, and because of her organizational skills, the trip was simply wonderful.....

Mari is a fantastic guide.  Her enthusiasm for the Galapagos is infectious. She is amazing knowable about the wild life, plants and history of the islands. She answered every question our group had and  paid attention to the weather and trail conditions.  Safety and fun for the participants are her primary goals. Each evening she explained what to expect the next day. She has a great sense of humor and it is obvious that she loves being a guide as well as, she loves the Galapagos. I want to go back again with Mari as my guide.